Supporting Aspiring Educators: Dreeben School of Education Welcomes Second Cohort of Charles Butt Scholars

At the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) Dreeben School of Education, future leaders in education are prepared to "positively impact the lives of the students they reach, the organizations they lead and the communities they serve" (uiw.edu).

Last year, UIW announced the Dreeben School of Education's recognition as a Charles Butt Foundation partner program. The Charles Butt Foundation is an organization "pursuing a more equitable and prosperous future for all Texans through education and community partnerships" (charlesbuttfnd.org). The partnership with the University has involved collaboration with the Foundation and other Texas educator preparation programs to improve the preparation and retention of Texas teachers.

Last year, an inaugural cohort of five students received the Charles Butt Scholarship for Aspiring Teachers. The scholarship provides each scholar with $8,000 in annual scholarship funding that's renewable for up to four years, as well as professional development support and networking opportunities.

This year, the second cohort of Charles Butt Scholars is comprised of eight students, including three returning students and five new scholars.

"Every teacher entering the classroom holds a responsibility to the students and families in their school communities," said Dr. Elda Martinez, Teacher Education department director. "The Charles Butt Scholars are prepared by UIW and have additional support from the Foundation. The longer teachers remain in the profession, the greater impact they make. It is an honor to know that we are part of this important effort."

UIW Charles Butt Scholarship Program Lead Jo-Anne Olivarri is also pleased to have this immensely beneficial opportunity offered to aspiring educators once again. Having served as a elementary school educator herself, she is glad to see that the next generation of educators will be able to feel supported in their pursuits to one day nurture the minds of Texas' youth.

"As an educator, I want this cohort of Charles Butt Scholars to feel not just supported financially but also a sense of belonging within a community of future teachers who share their passion for making a difference in education," shared Olivarri. "This is more than just a scholarship. It is an opportunity to build relationships with mentors and peers, develop confidence in their teaching abilities and gain a broader understanding of the positive impact they can have on Texas students and communities."

"Being a Charles Butt Scholar is a true blessing," expressed Sophia Viagran, one of the eight Charles Butt Scholars. "This scholarship allows me to continue my passion for education with an ease on my financial stress. The Charles Butt Scholarship offers many opportunities to grow and develop as a future educator. I am excited to be a part of a foundation that supports and values educators on every level!"

The Charles Butt Scholarship for Aspiring Teachers has presently awarded 1303 total scholarships state-wide in support of their vision to help create a world-class education system.

The next application cycle for the Charles Butt Scholarship for Aspiring Teachers opens Thursday, Oct. 16. Click here for more information and to apply.